Career Pathways

Natural Resources

Canine Handler: Teri-Lyn Nagao: “Atlas, are you ready to go?” Teri-Lyn Nagao calls as she pulls a freshly clean collar and leash from the dryer in the back of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) office under the airport.

Research Assistant: Ayja Nakasone: As a kid, Ayja Nakasone’s grandmother would baby-sit her, and the two would spend countless hours outside in her grandmother’s garden on the Windward side of O‘ahu.

Geologist: Donielle Chittenden: Most geologists are adept on land, as they study the composition, structure and other physical aspects of planet Earth. For 27-year-old geologist Donielle Chittenden, it’s the sky that has no limits.

Veterinarian: Leianne Leeloy: After Li‘i, the poodle, displayed aggressive behavior, his original owners discarded him. But, he was one lucky dog.

Recycling Specialist: Chris Hirota: Growing up surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, Chris Hirota spent most of his free time fishing, diving and surfing.

Agricultural Inspector: Jonathan Ho: His story may have a happy ending, but things didn’t come easy for Jonathan. He scratched and clawed his way through college, and his career goal finally became a reality about 12 months ago…

Humane Investigator: Neal Chung: "If you love animals than this is the job for you. We find them a good home, and give them a better chance at having a good life,"

Astronomer: Marianne Takamiya: Marianne has finally achieved her life-long goal of becoming an astronomer, but she has also found a second calling in the process.

Oceanographer: Carolyn Berger: While searching for the right career path, Carolyn explored every option, and she made sure nothing was left uncovered...

Farmer: Dean Okimoto: Living proof that a solid education can benefit a person in any line of work.

Golf Course Manager: Kevin Ginoza: Kevin, 30, is the golf course manager at the Makalei Golf Club in Kona...

Meterologist: Kevin Kodama: Kodama has a bachelor's degree in Meteorology and master's degree in Atmospheric Sciences...

Aquarium Biologist: Kelley Lam: Kelley Lam has a job that's almost like being a concierge, fish doctor…

Veterinary Technician: Darin Padula: Darin has had his share of ups and downs and dry spells between jobs. he's had quite an adventure getting to where he's at now.

Campus Visits: Would you buy a $40,000 car sight unseen? College is a significant investment and a foundational time in your life so, if at all possible, check out the merchandise before you buy.
College Connection: Your best friend’s skinny jeans might look awesome on her athletic frame, but will they do the same for your 5-feet-0-inches? It’s the same with colleges.
Got Your Game Plan?: Applying to college ain’t free—it can set you (or your folks) back anywhere from $40 to $80 a pop. So use a strategy that covers your bases without breaking the bank.
Putting You To The Test: The SAT Reasoning Test and the ACT are two standardized tests for college admissions.
The Major Breakdown: Let’s say, you like to surf. But unfortunately, surfing isn’t a declarable major yet. But there are skills and lessons learned in everything we do —including surfing.